Dr. Laurie Anne Neapole – Obstetrician and Gynecologist (OBGYN) | Comox, BC

Specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Laurie Anne Neapole (an OBGYN) is committed to delivering personalized and evidence-based care to patients in Comox, fostering a supportive healthcare environment. Practicing at a clinic and/or hospital setting in Comox, BC, she offers accessible and high-quality care to the community. The facility is located in the areas near central Comox, conveniently accessible via local public transit. The facility is wheelchair accessible, and metered street parking is available nearby. Dr. Neapole adheres to the standards and regulations set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), ensuring safe and professional medical practice.

Dr. Laurie Anne Neapole graduated with a Medical Degree (MD CM) from McGill University in 1989 and has completed extensive postgraduate training in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She holds key certifications including certification from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Her advanced training and dedicated commitment allow her to provide comprehensive care across the full scope of women's reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth.

Her clinical philosophy centers on patient-centered care, shared decision-making, and evidence-based practice. Dr. Neapole is dedicated to supporting women's health in Comox with compassion and professionalism. She communicates fluently in English and is committed to creating a respectful and empathetic environment for all her patients.

Dr. Laurie Neapole provides care for a wide spectrum of women's health issues, including:

Menstrual and Hormonal Disorders

• Dysmenorrhea (Painful Periods): Cramping and pelvic pain associated with menstruation, which can range from mild to severe and impact daily activities.
• Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) & Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): A collection of emotional and physical symptoms that occur in the one to two weeks before a woman's period, with PMDD being a more severe, debilitating form.
• Amenorrhea (Absence of Menstruation): The absence of menstrual periods, either primary (menarche never occurred) or secondary (periods ceased after previously being regular).

Infertility and Reproductive Health

• Uterine Factors Affecting Fertility (e.g., Septum, Asherman's Syndrome): Structural abnormalities or conditions of the uterus that can interfere with implantation or pregnancy maintenance.
• Ovulatory Dysfunction (e.g., Anovulation, Oligo-ovulation): Problems with ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary), such as infrequent or absent ovulation, a common cause of infertility.
• Female Infertility Evaluation & Initial Management: Comprehensive assessment to identify potential causes of difficulty conceiving in women and initiation of basic treatments.

Common Benign Gynecological Conditions

• Adenomyosis: A condition where endometrial tissue exists within and grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, often causing heavy, painful periods.
• Vaginitis (Yeast Infections, Bacterial Vaginosis, Trichomoniasis): Inflammation of the vagina that can result in discharge, itching, and pain, commonly caused by infections or imbalances in vaginal flora.
• Vulvodynia & Vulvar Pain Syndromes: Chronic pain or discomfort around the opening of the vagina (vulva) for which there's no identifiable cause, requiring careful management.

This list highlights some common conditions managed within Obstetrics and Gynecology and is not exhaustive. For personalized advice regarding your specific health concerns, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Laurie Neapole or your primary care physician for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate referral if needed.

• Oophorectomy / Salpingo-oophorectomy (Laparoscopic or Open): Surgical removal of one or both ovaries, and potentially fallopian tubes, often for cysts, tumors, endometriosis, or cancer risk reduction.
• Menopause & Perimenopause Symptom Management: Personalized guidance and treatment options for symptoms associated with menopause, including hot flashes, vaginal dryness, sleep issues, and discussion of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and non-hormonal alternatives.
• Pap Tests, HPV Testing & Cervical Cancer Screening (Colposcopy, LEEP): Cervical cancer screening through Pap tests and HPV testing, with follow-up diagnostic procedures like colposcopy and treatment for precancerous changes (e.g., LEEP - Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure).
• Labor and Delivery Management (Vaginal & Cesarean): Professional medical care and support during labor and childbirth, including management of vaginal deliveries, assisted vaginal deliveries (forceps/vacuum if needed), and planned or emergency Cesarean sections (C-sections).
• Basic Infertility Workup & Ovulation Tracking: Initial investigations into causes of infertility and guidance on tracking ovulation.
• Laparoscopic Surgery for Endometriosis & Ovarian Cysts (Excision/Ablation): Minimally invasive surgical techniques for diagnosing and treating endometriosis implants (excision or ablation) and removing benign ovarian cysts.
• Diagnosis & Treatment of Vaginal Infections & Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Management of conditions such as yeast infections, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and screening/treatment for STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV counseling.

Note: This list may provide an overview of common services in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Neapole provides a wide array of diagnostic, therapeutic, and surgical options tailored to individual patient needs within women's health, pregnancy, and childbirth. Specific services offered can be confirmed by contacting the clinic.

All medical and surgical services are provided in accordance with the standards of practice set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC). A referral may be required for insured services.

Dr. Neapole practices in a welcoming clinic situated within a hospital or medical facility in Comox, BC. The location is conveniently placed in the areas near central Comox, making it easy for patients to access her care. The clinic is close to several local points of interest and is well-connected by public transit, ensuring accessible transportation options. The facility is wheelchair accessible to accommodate all patients, and metered street parking is available nearby for those arriving by car. This strategic location allows Dr. Neapole to serve the women of Comox and surrounding communities effectively, providing comprehensive obstetric and gynecological services in a comfortable and accessible environment.

Are services from Dr. Neapole, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist, covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

Medically necessary consultations, prenatal care, delivery, gynecological surgeries, and diagnostic procedures performed by a licensed Obstetrician and Gynecologist like Dr. Neapole are generally covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC when you have a valid referral from your family doctor or another referring physician. Some elective procedures, certain fertility treatments, or non-medically indicated services may not be covered. It's always recommended to confirm specific coverage details with Medical Services Plan (MSP) or the clinic.

Do I need a referral from my family doctor to see Dr. Neapole, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist?

Yes, for services to be covered by your provincial health plan (Medical Services Plan (MSP)), a referral from your family physician or another specialist is typically required to see an Obstetrician and Gynecologist like Dr. Neapole for most consultations and treatments. This ensures coordinated care. Some specific services or clinics (e.g., some sexual health or contraception clinics) might have different access pathways, but for ongoing obstetrical or gynecological care, a referral is standard. Please check with Dr. Neapole's office or your referring doctor.

How often do I need a Pap test, and what is it for?

A Pap test (or Pap smear) is a screening procedure for cervical cancer. It checks for precancerous or cancerous cells on the cervix. Guidelines vary slightly by province but are generally recommended for women starting around age 21-25 (or once sexually active) and continuing every 2-3 years if results are normal. The frequency may change based on your age, medical history (including HPV status), and previous Pap test results. Dr. Neapole will advise you on the appropriate screening schedule for your individual circumstances based on current provincial guidelines.

I have uterine fibroids. What treatment options might Dr. Neapole suggest?

Treatment for uterine fibroids depends on their size, number, location, and the severity of your symptoms (like heavy bleeding or pain), as well as your reproductive goals. Options range from watchful waiting for asymptomatic fibroids, to medications (hormonal therapies to manage symptoms), to minimally invasive procedures (like uterine artery embolization - often by interventional radiology), or surgical removal of fibroids (myomectomy) or the uterus (hysterectomy). Dr. Neapole will help you decide the best course of action.

What are the treatment options for endometriosis that Dr. Neapole might recommend?

Treatment for endometriosis aims to manage pain and improve fertility if desired. Options vary based on symptom severity and patient goals and can include pain medications (NSAIDs), hormonal therapies (like birth control pills, progestins, GnRH agonists) to suppress endometrial tissue growth, and surgical treatments (laparoscopy) to remove endometrial implants and scar tissue. Dr. Neapole will discuss the most appropriate approach for your situation.

1808 Astra Rd
Comox, BC V9M 4B4

Phone: (604) 219-4389

The facility is wheelchair accessible.

Dr. Neapole is a licensed Obstetrician and Gynecologist regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC) under the Health Professions Act in BC. A referral from your family physician or another qualified healthcare provider is typically required for provincially insured consultations and treatments.

Verify registration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC): https://www.cpsbc.ca/public/registrant-directory/search-result/306261/Neapole%2CLaurie